Call to yank Justice Minister roils Dominican Repubilc lawmakers

Santo Domingo.- News of a push by a group of lawmakersto call Justice minister Francisco Dominguez to testify before Congress on aleged political activism in violation of the Constitution and the Judiciary’s Statutory Lawcaused a stir among legislators on Sunday.

Ruling PLD party Senator for the National District Reinaldo Pared said he was unaware ot that intent in Congress, but vowed to oppose the measure.

"I think that decision should have the approval of the PLD and if it continues, count me out," Pared said during a press conference

The initiative wouldn’t be welcomed by the Chamber of Deputies either, tweeted its president Abel Martinez.

In another tweet, National District prosecutor Yeni Berenice Reynoso also rebuked the initiative, calling the threats to impeach Dominguez for investigating acorruptioncase "as disgusting as the case in question."

"Some people exert blatant blackmailon the issue of corruption. If you’re so innocent put yourself at the disposal to justice," the official said.

Samana senator Prims Pujals said Dominguez should resign to devote himself to politics. He saidpolitics is incompatible with the office of Attorney General.

The Statutory Law of the Ministry bans career prosecutors from getting involved in politics.

The issue stems from two ongoing cases of alleged embezzlement against San Juan senator Felix Bautista and Victor Diaz Rua, both close collaborators of former president Leonel Fernandez.